I think that is the full explanation, Mr.Merrick." Again Uncle John nodded.
"How are you ?" he asked.
"Doing finely, sir.

I can walk a little, and my appetite is improving.
The doctors said my shoulder would never be very strong again, but I'm beginning to hope they were mistaken.

My ribs seem all right, and in another ten days I shall remove the splints from my arm." "You have no medical attendance ?" "Not since I left the hospital.

But I imagine this pure, bracing air is better for me than a dozen doctors," was the cheerful reply.
"And what are your future plans ?" The young man smiled.

He was little more than a boy, but his questioner noticed that he had a fine manly face and his eye was clear and steadfast.
"Nothing further than to get to work again as soon as I am able to undertake it," he said.
Uncle John looked thoughtfully, and drummed with his finger upon the little table.
"Joseph," he remarked, presently, "I bought this farm at a price altogether too small, considering its value." The boy flushed.
"Please do not say that!" he exclaimed, hastily.